Oklahoma lawmakers have agreed to end the 2026 legislative session on May 14, two weeks earlier than expected, with Republican leaders saying the move could save taxpayers an estimated $240,000 in legislative operating costs. Supporters argue that most major work, including the state budget, has already been completed and that setting an earlier deadline will avoid rushed, last-minute negotiations. However, Democratic leaders and some Republicans criticized the decision, saying lawmakers are leaving important issues unresolved and prioritizing election-year campaigning over public service.
Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt signed four education-related bills into law aimed at expanding school choice, increasing classroom time, and changing student policies. One bill raises the cap on the Parental Choice Tax Credit Program, while another increases the required number of school days from 166 to 173 if additional funding is provided. The legislation also includes a study on creating three-year bachelor’s degree programs and formally bans student cell phone and personal electronic device use during the school day on public campuses. Stitt said the measures are designed to strengthen opportunities for students and give parents more control over their children’s education.
Oklahoma lawmakers passed a bill that would allow out-of-state organizations to receive funding through the state’s Choosing Childbirth program, which supports services aimed at reducing abortions. The measure was written with the Texas-based nonprofit Human Coalition in mind, despite concerns from some lawmakers about Oklahoma tax dollars potentially funding out-of-state salaries and telecare services with limited oversight. Debate in the House focused on privacy protections, accountability, and whether state funds should prioritize Oklahoma-based organizations, though supporters argued the bill’s main goal is to reduce abortions and expand support for pregnant women. The bill ultimately passed the House 73-18 and now heads to Governor Kevin Stitt for consideration.
Oklahoma lawmakers approved a bill raising the state’s Parental Choice Tax Credit cap from $250 million to $275 million, increasing funding available for families using private school tuition assistance. Governor Kevin Stitt signed the measure after originally pushing to remove the cap entirely, while the final version limits future increases beyond $275 million. Critics note that a large portion of the tax credits went to higher-income families, with households earning over $225,000 receiving slightly more funding than families earning $75,000 or less. The bill’s passage also helped advance a separate measure granting Oklahoma public school teachers a $2,000 pay raise.
Weekly Wrap Up
Upcoming Deadlines
05/14 at 5:00pm: The Second Regular Session of the 60th Oklahoma Legislature Sine Die Adjournment
To see the full legislative calendar, click the link to view the House Calendar and Senate Calendar.
QUOTE OF THE WEEK
“I am thankful that Governor Stitt takes the issue of illegal immigration seriously and recognizes the importance of enforcing the rule of law at every level of government,” Speaker Hilbert said regarding Gov. Stitt issuing the executive orders laid out in Hilbert’s SECURE Act. “Oklahoma taxpayers should never be forced to subsidize benefits for individuals who are in our country illegally. These services are intended for legal tax-paying citizens, and we are going to make sure that is who is receiving these benefits in Oklahoma.”